Early Intervention Services

The goal of Early Intervention is to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to families who have an eligible infant or toddler with, or at risk for, developmental delays.

ELIGIBILITY

Your child, age birth to 3, may be eligible for Early Intervention Services if he/she:

• exhibits a developmental delay in one of the following areas:

  • Cognitive/Ability to learn

  • Physical Development

  • Communication (Language/Speech)

  • Social/Emotional Development

  • Adaptive/Self-Care Skills; or

• has a diagnosed condition placing him/her at risk of developmental delay, or

• exhibits unusual developmental patterns of behavior.

EVALUATION AND ASSESSMENT

This is a way to gather information so that together we can provide services to enhance your child's growth and development.

INDIVIDUALIZED FAMILY SERVICE PLAN (IFSP)

If your child is eligible, as a family you may wish to participate in the Early Intervention Program. The plan represents a partnership between you and your Early Intervention team. Your service coordinator will assist your family in identifying available community resources and coordinating the delivery of Early Intervention Services.

SERVICES

Services necessary to meet the unique needs of your child and family are recorded on the Maryland Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). All Early Intervention Services are voluntary and family-centered. They may include, but are not limited to:

• Assistive Technology

• Audiology

• Family Counseling/Training

• Health Services

• Medical Services

• (Diagnostic/Evaluation Only)

• Nursing Services

• Nutrition Services

• Occupational Therapy

• Psychological Services

• Respite Care

• Service Coordination

• (Case Management)

• Social Work Services

• Special Instruction

• Specialized Child Care

• Speech/Language Pathology

• Transportation

• Vision Services

• Other Early Intervention Services (as specified)

REWARDS

Fifty percent (50%) of a child's intellectual development takes place between conception and age 4. Early Intervention Services are available at your child's most important time of learning and development. Infants and toddlers are uniquely dependent on their families for care. With services available in a variety of home, center, and community environments, your family can support the growth and development of your child.

COST

Early Intervention Services are available at no cost to the family, except where federal or Maryland law provides for a system of payment. That payment may include sliding fees or use of related funding sources, such as private insurance or Medicaid.